Extremism and Outrage - NaPodPoMo 2024 - Day 9

This episode of Outrage Science Bites explores the link between outrage and extremism. Outrage is a powerful motivator that can lead to radicalization when it goes unchecked. The episode discusses how outrage can cloud our thinking, making it difficult to see nuances and leading to a black-and-white "us versus them" mentality. It emphasizes that not everyone is equally vulnerable to this process, highlighting the role of psychology. People with higher integrative complexity, the ability to recognize and integrate different viewpoints, are less likely to be drawn into extreme thinking. The episode concludes by emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, social awareness, self-management, and responsible decision-making in resisting the pull towards extremism. It encourages listeners to foster these skills to navigate outrage and engage constructively with differing perspectives.